Calendar

From organizers: A special presentation, “Listen to Poetry, Song Lyrics, and Contemporary Songs,” featuring poet and screenwriter Dave Malone. Malone’s multimedia presentation will feature short verse poems and song lyrics he has written, along with audio recordings of his lyrics set to music by Minneapolis-based musicians. Attendees will explore a unique form of verse poetry, hear song lyrics, and listen to recorded songs. The event is free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served.

From organizers:  Join us for a delightful and creative experience at our Ceramic Truck Painting Workshop! West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host the workshop, conducted by local artist Tara Shahan. The price for the workshop is $45, all supplies included. You will be guided through the painting process, including tips on color selection, brush techniques, and creative design ideas. All materials, including paints and brushes are provided. Whether you’re looking to create a unique gift or simply enjoy a creative evening, our workshop promises a memorable time filled with creativity and camaraderie. Come solo or bring friends and family to share the joy of craft painting. The truck measures 10.5L x 5.25H x 5.75W and can be filled with plants or trinkets for any season. No prior painting experience is necessary. Just bring your imagination and enthusiasm! Space is limited. Reserve your spot by text 417-505-0812 or email info@westplainsarts.org.

West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, West Plains Boys and Girls Club. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

From CASA: American Championship Wrestling is coming to West Plains April 11th to benefit CASA!! For ticket information, visit acwtheshow.com.

Doors open at 6 p.m., event begins 7 p.m.  General admission is $6, front row seat is $10. Concessions, pictures with wrestlers, and merchandise will be available.  “Hard hitting, family fun.”

1 Person Scramble Choose your T-time entry includes lunch. Chili Classic 1 Person Scramble on Facebook.

From organizers: Introduction to Amateur Radio Workshop on Saturday, April 12th, from 9 am to 12 pm at the Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center on the Missouri State University-West Plains campus. This three-hour workshop will be an opportunity for us to discuss and showcase various aspects of amateur radio operations. Introduction to Amateur Radio Workshop on Facebook.

Organizers say there will be a raffle, face painting, egg decorating, snacks and drinks.

Organizers say hot dogs, chips, desert and beverages will be supplied.

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

From Dev’s: Mr. James Vankirk joins us in the lounge Saturday, 4/12 – pickin’ & singin’ all of your favorite country, blues, and classic rock tunes. Music starts at 6:00! James Vankirk Live @ Dev’s on Facebook.

Check the Country Express Band Facebook page for cost and other details, including potential cancellations due to weather, holidays or other unforeseen circumstances.

From Country Express: Two step, Cha Cha, Waltz, Electric Slide, Charleston, Foot Boogie, River Waltz, Sweetheart, Around the Room, Tennessee Waltz, Neon Moon Cha Cha, and many more. Or just come listen to some good ole country music. Old country, new country, southern rock music. No alcohol allowed. Family fun for all ages.

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

From the director, Jordan Hall: BIG, BIG NEWS!
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 summer musical….Dreamworks “The Prince of Egypt”!

The West Plains Photography Club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.

From the Library: Author Barbara Baird will present on the topic of Mills in the Missouri Ozarks. Barbara Baird, aka “The Accidental Ozarkian,” has published her first book, Milling Around: Exploring 26 Mills in the Missouri Ozarks. This full-color, glossy-covered guide features her visits to historic mills, with stunning photos by her husband, Jason Baird. Inspired by her weekly column, this book offers detailed descriptions, illustrated maps, and GPS coordinates for mill enthusiasts. The event is free but she will have copies of her book available for purchase for those interested.

West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, West Plains Boys and Girls Club. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.

Join us at the West Plains Public Library for a fun-filled afternoon on Wednesday, April 16, from 4-5 p.m.! We’ll have story time, crafts, and an Easter egg hunt in the Children’s Library. Bring your little ones (ages 10 and under) for a hoppin’ good time!

See City Wide Yard Sale Extension event page on Facebook for more information, including for vendor set up.

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.

Food Truck Thursdays at the Civic Center in 2025 include: April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, and September 18.

For reservations, call the Garnett Library, 417-255-7945, or Kloz Klozet, 417-256-3581.

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

MSU-WP to host dedication ceremony April 17 for Neurodiversity and Autism Center

Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) will officially dedicate its new Neurodiversity and Autism Center during a ceremony from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Thursday, April 17, 2025.

University officials, local leaders and supporters of the project will gather to celebrate the completion of the state-of-the-art, $10.5 million facility. The facility houses the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program, which provides specialized support for students on the autism spectrum as they navigate college life and prepare for future careers.

“This new facility represents a major step forward in ensuring all students have the resources they need to succeed in higher education,” said Mikala King, director of the autism transition program. “The TJ Swift House ASCEND Program is designed to provide essential academic, social and daily living support, and this new space will enhance our ability to serve students in meaningful ways.”

A key feature of the new facility is the Philanthropic Friends Giving Circle Sensory Garden, made possible through a major gift from the Philanthropic Friends Giving Circle. Led by local resident and former Missouri State University Board of Governors member Carol Silvey, the garden will provide a calming outdoor environment for students on the spectrum while maintaining an enclosed space for comfort and security.

The Neurodiversity and Autism Center was made possible through significant funding contributions, including $7.5 million in state funding secured with the support of former 33rd District state Sen. Karla Eslinger, R-Wasola; former 154th District state Rep. David Evans, R-West Plains; and former Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who signed the legislation for the appropriation in June 2022. Additional funding included $500,000 from the Howell County Commission’s American Rescue Plan Act funds and $2.5 million from the President’s Enhancement Fund at Missouri State University in Springfield.

Designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum, the 9,300-square-foot building features sensory-conscious elements such as indirect lighting, textured materials on carpets, walls and furniture, sound-absorbing materials and breakout rooms designed to help reduce overstimulation. The facility also includes classroom space tailored to support the unique learning styles of students in the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program.

“This project has been years in the making, and we are incredibly grateful to our state legislators, local government leaders and generous donors who helped make it a reality,” said MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster. “This facility will be a game-changer for our students and a model for other institutions looking to enhance support for neurodiverse learners.”

Lancaster emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting a learning environment for all students. “At Missouri State University-West Plains, we are dedicated to providing opportunities for all students to thrive. This facility is a testament to that mission, ensuring students on the autism spectrum have the resources they need to succeed academically, socially and in their future careers.”

The dedication ceremony will take place outside the new facility on the MSU-WP campus. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the building following the ceremony.

For more information about the dedication ceremony, contact the MSU-WP office of university communications at 417-255-7960.

For more information about the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program, visit WP.MissouriState.edu/ASCEND or email King at MikalaKing@MissouriState.edu.

See City Wide Yard Sale Extension event page on Facebook for more information, including for vendor set up.

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

From the director, Jordan Hall: BIG, BIG NEWS!
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 summer musical….Dreamworks “The Prince of Egypt”!

From organizers: Come out on this 420 weekend for a night of high times and good jams from Slim Stanley as the jams will consist of music from the Grateful Dead and other inspired tunes. This is free to get in but tips and donations are accepted up to 420 dollars. This is a BYOB event, please do so responsibly. Starting at 7 PM so get to trucking over to get your rambling rose dance shoes on and see what’s shaking on Trish Knight Street.

Message The Yellow House for more information.

The American Legion hosts a breakfast on the third Saturday of every month as a fundraiser. All you can eat and lots of options at a bargain price!

See City Wide Yard Sale Extension event page on Facebook for more information, including for vendor set up.

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.

The Lincoln School will host former NBA player and current administrator with Drury University Chris Carr for a community talk on perseverance and leadership. The program is free and open to all, but due to limited seating, registration is required. RSVP by emailing LincolnSchool65775@gmail.com.

Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.

Check the Country Express Band Facebook page for cost and other details, including potential cancellations due to weather, holidays or other unforeseen circumstances.

From Country Express: Two step, Cha Cha, Waltz, Electric Slide, Charleston, Foot Boogie, River Waltz, Sweetheart, Around the Room, Tennessee Waltz, Neon Moon Cha Cha, and many more. Or just come listen to some good ole country music. Old country, new country, southern rock music. No alcohol allowed. Family fun for all ages.